The UK–Australia working visa agreement

The UK–Australia working visa agreement

In 2023/2024, The Australia–United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement (A‑UKFTA) has not only deepened trade ties but also transformed opportunities for work and mobility between the two nations. 

Under this agreement, professionals in the hospitality and service industries benefit from significant mobility provisions. Even though they are not singled out as a dedicated category like agriculture or innovation, they are covered broadly as service suppliers.

These changes are particularly significant for professionals, young people, and businesses looking to expand across borders.

EXPANDED WORKING HOLIDAY (and YOUTH MOBILITY VISAS)

For UK citizens heading to Australia:

• The age limit for the Subclass 417 Working Holiday Visa has been raised from 30 to 35 (effective since 1 July 2023).
• Since 1 July 2024, UK passport holders can stay for up to three years (12 months per visa) without the need to complete specified regional or agricultural work.
• Even those who previously used one or two years under the old scheme can take advantage of the new rules for any remaining visas.
• Working Holiday visa holders can currently stay three years in Australia

For Australian citizens heading to the UK:

• Since 31 January 2024, Australians can apply for the UK’s Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) up to age 35.
• The YMS has also been extended to three years, allowing longer work and travel opportunities in the UK.

BUSINESS & SKILLED PROFESSIONAL MOBILITY

The A‑UKFTA also provides new pathways for skilled professionals and companies:

• No labour market testing is required for sponsoring UK or Australian nationals, simplifying recruitment.
• Intra-corporate transferees and executives can now stay for up to four years in the host country and bring dependents with full work rights.
• Professionals in sectors like consulting, research, and travel can access opportunities without being restricted to existing skilled occupation lists.

The FTA ensures full market access for service suppliers—including those in hospitality-related sectors such as travel agencies, tour operators, and installation/servicing services—without local presence requirements. 

UK businesses can now provide services in Australia without needing a representative office or meeting arbitrary limitations on the number or size of services provided.

More details here : Working Holiday Maker (WHM) program